In today's fast-paced, automated environment lay persons often find it easy to believe that legal matters can and should be handled in the same "quick fix", "hurry up" manner as so many fast food chains. In fact, there are several computer software packages and web sites that tend to suggest "do-it-yourself-lawyering" is a reasonable alternative to hiring an attorney. While there may be limited instances where a lay person can handle a simple legal matter without professional help, it would be wise to be very wary of "self-lawyering". There are just too many pitfalls and traps that a lay person can be ensnared by if (s)he attempts to bite off more than (s)he can chew.

There are very good reasons that lawyers are required to undergo years of training and testing before they can represent people with legal problems. The law is not an easy thing to understand. Often laws can be interpreted in many different ways. A skilled lawyer is one who can convince a judge or jury to interpret the laws in a certain fashion, or to apply facts to the laws in a specific manner, that leads to a favorable resolution for the client. Laws can also greatly differ from one state to the next, further complicating matters. Further, the law is dynamic in nature. It is always changing. New laws may be made or stricken by various legislatures or they may be created through judicial interpretation, what is known as "common law". It is very difficult for a lay person to know the current status of various laws, let alone understand how to interpret those laws.

However, as complicated as the law may be, it is also important to understand that it works. In fact, even though recent legal news events may have led many to conclude that our legal system is in dire need of repair, the truth is that the system works very well for the most part. Of course, there is always room for improvement.

Just because there is room to improve does not mean that persons should not take advantage of their rights to the legal system. Nor should anyone feel embarrassed or ashamed to utilize the legal system to seek remedies when they have been wronged. That is what the system was designed for. Though it may not be a perfect system is certainly beats many of the alternatives.

So, if you have a legal problem be wary about handling it yourself. Do not hesitate to find a lawyer to discuss the situation. Many lawyers will offer a free first consultation so that you need not worry about paying when there may not be a case to pursue. The law is for everyone.